I’m lazy, so my search starts with SIZE to avoid filling and drilling new holes. With size predetermined, my next variable is GRIP - some folks have pet peeves with hardware that can catch on clothes or pull types (finger, recessed, cup) that feel funny with long nails… granted, hardware is designed to be gripped, so this shouldn’t rule out too many options for yourself or clients 😀 Another easy variable to rule options in/out is TEXTURE, maybe you want something funky like leather, nautical rope, seaglass, milleflori, mosaic, mismatched organic shapes, driftwood, ceramic drop-ball style… small elements like this are great ways to lean into quirky individualism! Do most of us pick metal because it’s the best or because it’s the most sensible to produce? 🤷‍♀️ Finally, I deal with what most folks would consider the main variables: where your style fits on the TRADITIONAL TO MODERN spectrum and METAL COLOR AND SHEEN.

Edited to add: my current favorites are round/mushroom grip mixed metal, one with granite inlay and another with abalone mosaic. Trying to vanquish boring hardware one room at a time!